The Gill Instruments WindObserver Intrinsically Safe ultrasonic anemometer is now certified by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for use in explosive atmospheres (Ex).

Gill has added IECEx to existing safety ATEX certification already held for its market leading anemometer, which is widely used across the world. With IECEx, WindObserver IS can provide high quality data and reliability to similar applications and new markets including the USA.

The WindObserver IS provides highly accurate measurements of wind speed and direction and can be installed in hazardous and explosive atmospheres found in marine, offshore and other environments where significant quantities of flammable liquids, vapour and combustible dusts could cause fire or explosion.

WindObserver IS measures wind speeds of 0-75m/s and 0-359° wind direction in extreme environments, remains operational in temperatures from -30°C to +70°C and offers low start-up speeds of 0.01m/s. It has no moving parts, is lightweight and constructed from stainless steel to provide extreme durability with little need for maintenance, ideal for long term installations in areas where access is difficult. Sophisticated error checking and fault reporting, gives users full confidence in the quality of WindObservers reported data.

Tony Stickland, Director at Gill Instruments comments, “Electrical safety is of primary importance in hazardous atmospheres and gaining IECEx certification is important for our continued expansion into new markets including the USA.”

The IECEx approved WindObserver IS will be displayed at Oceanology International, London from 11-13 March 2014.